Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is widely regarded as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair offers an extended historical record of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can present a detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches comprising around 200 hair strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp achieves 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG tests, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is ideal. It is advisable to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases involved in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab’s system. This process involves verifying that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for courtroom admissibility. Any samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is drawn from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drug substances are removed from hair at much lower concentrations than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation when required. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often called "hair follicle tests", these analyses examine the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rutledge, PA
In Rutledge, PA, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests in accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which fail to detect long-term drug use, hair testing provides detailed insight over a longer period, catching substance use that other methods miss. It offers a superior level of detection accuracy, proving invaluable for employers enforcing strict drug-free policies.
Extended Detection Window in Rutledge, PA
Hair follicle testing in Rutledge, PA offers the advantage of a significantly extended detection period of up to 90 days. As a result, employers gain a comprehensive view of an individual's substance use history, far beyond what urine tests can provide. This longer window is crucial for businesses looking to maintain high safety and compliance standards, ensuring that they are making informed decisions about hiring and retention.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rutledge, PA
Hair follicle testing in Rutledge, PA provides a tamper-resistant drug screening method, minimizing risks of sample adulteration. Its reliability helps in acquiring unquestionable evidence of substance use. Because hair tests are collected through direct observation, it reduces opportunities for manipulation, granting peace of mind.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rutledge, PA
Accredited Drug Testing boasts a network of nationwide centers, making it incredibly convenient for testing in Rutledge, PA. With a straightforward process, employees and individuals can access testing without hassle. The ease of reaching local and nationwide locations ensures that everyone can benefit from the comprehensive drug testing services offered.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rutledge, PA
Utilizing a simple and confidential approach, hair follicle testing in Rutledge, PA provides ease and privacy. Ordering and taking the tests is streamlined, with results delivered discreetly. This ensures that individuals feel secure and respected throughout the process, while companies can rest assured that confidentiality is upkept, building trust with employees and clients alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rutledge, PA
Rutledge, PA takes pride in offering hair follicle testing at competitive prices. Paired with swift turnaround times, these tests promise excellent value to companies of varying sizes. Quick and budget-friendly services ensure that businesses can maintain effective screening protocols without straining resources, gaining peace of mind and operational efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rutledge, PA
Hair follicle drug testing in Rutledge, PA stands out for its speed and pinpoint accuracy. Known for delivering precise readings, these tests detect substance use effectively. Results arrive quickly, ensuring minimal wait. The reliable nature of this testing method supports confident decision-making for employers and authorities alike. Michael Trent, CEO of Accredited Drug Tests, claims hair drug testing has transformed the landscape with its reliable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rutledge, PA
Employers in Rutledge, PA value hair follicle testing as it offers assurance of compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By adopting hair testing, companies can significantly reduce legal risks and enhance workplace safety. This method demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all employees, reinforcing a company's reputation as a responsible employer.
